All posts by z3u9t.icu

Chelsea have already reached out for discussions with the representatives of Juventus sensation Kenan Yildiz, with Enzo Maresca hatching a new tactical plan involving Cole Palmer.

The west Londoners have lost three out of their last five Premier League games and narrowly escaped with a thrilling 4-3 win away to bottom side Wolves in the Carabao Cup earlier this week.

Despite spending nearly £300 million in the summer transfer window, there is clearly still work to be done from Chelsea’s perspective, and reports suggest that Juventus are even taking an interest in Maresca ahead of next summer.

The Old Lady appointed Luciano Spalletti on an interim basis until the end of the season, but if that doesn’t work out and Maresca fails to turn the tide at Stamford Bridge, a move to Juve could be on the cards in 2026.

In the meantime, Chelsea’s manager is surely tasked with finishing in the top four at the very least, and preferably adding more silverware to the club’s trophy cabinet after their Conference League and Club World Cup triumphs earlier this year.

According to some reports, Maresca is still quite unhappy with the options he has at Chelsea right now, so January could be a key month despite heavy summer backing in the market.

The most obvious area Chelsea are short in is centre-back, with ex-midfielder John Obi-Mikel claiming that the Blues will get nowhere near a Premier League title boasting that backline.

Ahead of the winter window’s opening, reports suggest that Chelsea are prioritising a new centre-back, with Levi Colwill expected to be out until spring 2026 after rupturing his ACL in pre-season.

However, they could also land a new forward, and have been linked with Yildiz as a serious option.

Chelsea make "very exciting" Yildiz offer amid Cole Palmer plan

Fabrizio Romano says that Chelsea “really like” the Turkey international who’s dazzled as Juve’s star attacker since the beginning of last season.

Yildiz racked up 12 goals and nine assists in all competitions across 2024/2025, finishing the campaign as their best-performing regular with over 10 starts, going by average match rating per 90 minutes (WhoScored).

The 20-year-old also made more key passes per 90 and completed more take-ons in the final third than any of his teammates, with Yildiz starting 25/26 in equally imperious fashion.

Juventus 2-0 Parma Calcio

8.88

Juventus 4-3 Inter Milan

8.51

Juventus 3-1 Udinese

7.55

Atalanta 1-1 Juventus

7.10

Genoa 0-1 Juventus

7.04

via WhoScored

He has seven goal contributions in 12 appearances already this term, attracting serious interest from Stamford Bridge.

According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea have “discreetly” reached out to Yildiz’s camp with a “very exciting” offer to join them, and Italian insiders are adamant that Maresca’s side are in pole position to land him.

This comes as Maresca hatches a plan to partner the young Turk with Palmer up front, as Chelsea see him as the “ideal” player to link up with their England superstar.

However, there are major obstacles to overcome in this would-be transfer — mainly Juve’s minimum demand of around £79 million — with Real Madrid also in the race.

Los Blancos are described as a “major threat” to Chelsea in pursuit of Yildiz, and the player is apparently very enticed by Xabi Alonso’s side as a possible destination.

There is also the matter of Juve apparently stepping up new contract talks to keep him out of rival clutches, so Chelsea could have to launch the kitchen sink if this move has any chance of happening.

Chelsea have been offered another Juventus star too

Manchester United star Diogo Dalot has revealed his thoughts on ‘The United Strand’, who has vowed not to cut his hair until Ruben Amorim’s side win five games in a row.

Man Utd make it two wins on the bounce with victory at Anfield

After nearly one year in charge, Amorim has finally managed to win two Premier League games on the bounce, with his side pulling off a shock 2-1 victory against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, courtesy of a late Harry Maguire header.

Having been critical of the United boss at times this season, Jamie Carragher was full of praise for the 40-year-old after the match, claiming he got his tactics “absolutely spot on”.

There is still a long way to go, but supporter Frank Ilett, who has become known as ‘The United Strand’ will have renewed confidence the Red Devils can make it five wins on the spin, having pledged not to have a haircut until Amorim’s side do so.

The story has made waves to such an extent that Dalot was even asked for his thoughts after the victory against Liverpool, and the full-back made it clear he believes five wins on the spin could be possible, sending a short message of hope to the fan.

He continued: But we have to go game by game. Obviously, we know this is a very difficult league, we have tough games.

“And, of course, we have to go after that consistency that we have lacked because we have already shown in the past that we can compete against any team in the world.

“We get to the big games, we get to have good performances. Now it’s trying to make it happen every game.”

£62m Man Utd star looks like their best player "since Fergie retired"

Manchester United might just have turned a corner under Ruben Amorim’s wing.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Oct 20, 2025 Victory at Anfield could kickstart the Amorim era

Although Liverpool have not been in the best of form, winning at Anfield is no mean feat, with United failing to do so in nine years, and INEOS will be hoping that the result can kickstart the Amorim era.

Five wins on the bounce may be a tall order, but it is definitely possible when you look at the fixture list, given that United have won every home game so far this season, while Nottingham Forest are in the relegation zone, and Aston Villa won at Tottenham Hotspur last time out.

Man United’s upcoming fixtures

Date

Brighton & Hove Albion (h)

October 25th

Nottingham Forest (a)

November 1st

Tottenham Hotspur (a)

November 8th

Either way, things are finally starting to look up for Man United, with Amorim’s side now just two points off the top four.

Since the start of last season, Tottenham Hotspur have only won six home games in the Premier League.

A big response was needed ahead of Saturday’s clash against Fulham, but the relegation-threatened Cottagers swept into a two-goal advantage after six minutes, and the damage was done.

(1) Man City

2nd

24.2

(2) Chelsea

3rd

22.9

(3) Crystal Palace

9th

21.1

(4) Arsenal

1st

21.8

(5) Brentford

10th

21.1

(17) Tottenham

12th

11.9

This, sadly, is no uncharted territory, with Ange Postecoglou’s incredible Europa League triumph unable to save him from the axe as the Lilywhites limped to a 17th-place finish in the Premier League.

Thomas Frank was snapped up, the former Brentford boss having done so well in west London.

But things have hardly gone swimmingly several months into the Danish tactician’s stewardship.

Spurs could consider summer target

Frank still believes he can turn things around at Tottenham, but he’s running out of time. The fans are fed up, and there is a widening chasm in regard to the connection between manager and supporter.

To dare is to do, but Spurs daren’t spread their wings and showcase their attacking quality, it seems. Frank might employ a grittier, more pragmatic defensive and build-up structure than his predecessor, but he will fall by the wayside without taking off the fetters.

And with Oliver Glasner likely still on ENIC Group’s radar after summer interest, a solution may be right there for the taking.

In June, Tottenham chiefs held talks with the trophy-winning Crystal Palace manager before opting instead to push ahead with Frank, though the Austrian said he was committed to the Eagles cause after his stunning FA Cup win.

However, rumours of Glasner’s departure from Selhurst Park have since persisted, and the fan view from south London is that the 51-year-old will leave the club by the end of the season.

Why Spurs should appoint Glasner

Glasner has worked wonders since replacing Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace, claiming the FA Cup and Community Shield in 2025, but also fashioning this side into a genuine contender at the front end of the Premier League. They are currently competing in the Conference League.

Described as a “top-five manager in the world” by one Premier League content creator, Bayern Munich wanted Glasner’s signature before pushing ahead with Vincent Kompany, and competition is sure to be thick if he remains the Eagles boss next summer.

Typically employing a three-man backline, Glasner would find players in north London who have already established a measure of understanding in a similar system.

His aggressive duelling style and fluidity in set-up could actually play into Xavi Simons’ hands, the Netherlands midfielder having struggled since signing from RB Leipzig this summer.

Simons, 22, has lacked sharpness and physicality in the final third for the Lilywhites, but there’s no question that he is a top talent and that his numbers in the Bundesliga, both in regard to output and athleticism, suggest he has what it takes to cut the mustard.

And if you hark back to that xG-related table, you will observe that Palace sit third in the standings there. Frank will feel hard done by, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski still recovering from injuries picked up last season, but there can be no excuse for the manner of Spurs’ performances. More should be given from the players on the pitch.

You need only look at Simons’ prolific campaigns in Germany to understand that this is a special player, varied in his attacking approach, creative, combative, crafty when on the ball.

Matches (starts)

32 (32)

25 (25)

Goals

8

10

Assists

11

7

Shots (on target)*

2.5 (1.0)

2.0 (0.9)

Touches*

62.6

68.0

Pass completion

82%

83%

Big chances created

14

12

Key passes*

2.5

2.0

Dribbles*

2.6

1.3

Ball recoveries*

5.2

5.1

Tackles + interceptions*

1.4

1.6

Duels won*

6.3

5.4

The young Dutchman is a “game-changer”, as said by talent scout Jacek Kulig, and he has the capacity to become a superstar in the Premier League.

Tottenham haven’t exactly provided him with arable land to root in his skills and grow into a leading man down N17. Frank proved at Brentford that he is a good manager, but maybe he just isn’t right for this Spurs project.

Glasner, however, would be a jackpot appointment, and his previous success in shaping Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise into elite creators on the biggest stage suggests that he would be the manager to revive Simons’ potential.

Under Glasner’s wing, Olise posted seven goal involvements from the eight games he was involved, injured for much of his early time at the helm. Eze scored 20 goals and assisted 14 more across 56 outings before completing a big-money move to Arsenal.

The security and balance of Glasner’s tactical set-up would free Simons’ playmaking quality up, and if Frank is dismissed, this would be the coach to go for.

Spurs flop has become their biggest "embarrassment" since Aurier

It’s gone from bad to worse for Spurs, and this Conte signing’s time at the club could be coming to an end.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Dec 1, 2025

Looking to solve their attacking problems once and for all, Manchester United have reportedly turned to La Liga and are now ready to make an offer to sign one particular star striker this summer.

Man Utd transfer news

There's no doubt that the Red Devils need more firepower if they are to climb back into the Premier League's top four next season. The likes of Antony, Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and particularly Marcus Rashford, by his standards, endured incredibly disappointing campaigns last time out.

Whilst they ended on the high of winning the FA Cup final against rivals Manchester City, Rashford truly had his struggles summed up by Gareth Southgate's decision to leave him out of his Euro 2024 England squad.

Reports have now handed those at Old Trafford plenty of clues as to where that added firepower will come from this summer, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe looks to make his mark for the first time in Manchester. According to journalist Rudy Galetti, after initially eyeing a move, Manchester United are "ready to send an offer" to sign Youssef En-Nesyri from Sevilla.

Man Utd battling PL rivals for dream £21m Martinez partner

He is wanted by several clubs in Europe

ByJoe Nuttall Jun 8, 2024

The offer will reportedly be around €15m-€20m (£13m-£17m) in what United will hope Sevilla deem enough to sanction a sale. What should help is that En-Nesyri himself has already reportedly given his approval over the move to hand the Red Devils an early boost in pursuit of his signature.

United's backline will already be all too familiar with the forward's quality, given that he's scored twice in three games against them and never suffered defeat against United. In those three games, En-Nesyri's Sevilla side have beaten United twice and drawn once in a humbling spell for the Premier League giants.

"Fantastic" En-Nesyri can replace Martial and more

Following the exit of Anthony Martial, United need an extra option in their attacking line, but not just one who is likely to remain sidelined for the majority of the campaign, even if they show glimpses of their true quality on the pitch. What they need is a player ready to step in and take responsibility in Erik ten Hag's attack, which is where En-Nesyri should come in to at least partner Hojlund.

Goals

16

10

Assists

2

2

Expected goals

10.8

7.6

Key passes

9

28

What's most promising about this potential partnership is just how clinical both forwards are in front of goal. Last season, although Hojlund managed just 10 goals, he outperformed his expected rate by just under three strikes in clinical fashion to perhaps highlight a lack of service, rather than any wastefulness on his end. En-Nesyri, meanwhile, outperformed his expected goals by just over five in a ruthless season of finishing.

Described as "fantastic" by Football Talent Scout's Jacek Kulig, En-Nesyri could now get the chance to step into the Premier League and play his part in transforming a blunt Manchester United attack next season.

In search of their replacement for Raphael Varane, Manchester United are now reportedly in pole position to sign a European star for Erik ten Hag in this summer's transfer window, having been given the green light by the player this week.

Man Utd transfer news

Whilst they're yet to officially get their summer business underway, Manchester United have been linked with plenty of names, including Joshua Zirkzee and Manuel Ugarte. Both players would instantly help Ten Hag solve two major problems in his current side, with Casemiro struggling in defensive midfield and United's attacking options far from thriving last season.

Replacing Casemiro is particularly important this summer, given that he sits at the heart of Ten Hag's side. The Brazilian, now 32 years old, began to show signs that he's past his best last season and has since been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. Even without that move, however, United should prioritise welcoming a replacement in the form of Ugarte in the coming months.

Imagine him & De Ligt: Man Utd scouting "electric" Shaw replacement

The impressive full-back could be a game-changer for United.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 3, 2024

Casemiro isn't the only player who will need replacing, either, following the departure of Varane at the end of last season. The Frenchman left as a free agent to create a gaping hole in United's defence that one European star could now fill.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United are now in pole position to sign Matthijs de Ligt this summer and have opened negotiations with Bayern Munich over a potential deal. The Dutchman, meanwhile, has reportedly given the green light regarding a move to Old Trafford in the coming months.

With De Ligt seemingly keen on the move, Manchester United have the chance to sign a defender who is more than capable of replacing Varane and more next season.

"Wonderful" De Ligt can lead Man Utd's backline

Earning a reported £261k-a-week, De Ligt already has plenty of experience at levels that some Manchester United players are yet to even see for themselves, having played in Champions League semi-finals and won league titles at both Ajax and Bayern Munich.

The Dutchman, currently at the Euros with his country, now has the chance to become the defensive leader that the Red Devils are so desperately crying out for next to Harry Maguire, or when fit Lisandro Martinez.

Progressive Carries

16

20

Progressive Passes

98

73

Tackles Won

12

17

Ball Recoveries

73

78

It's a surprise that Bayern Munich have so willingly entered talks with Manchester United, given the praise that former sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic had for De Ligt when the central defender arrived in 2022, saying via the Bundesliga website: “We wanted to bring Matthijs to Munich three years ago. We were convinced of his qualities as a defender then, and we are even more so today.

"With his professionalism, his desire and his wonderful character, Matthijs fits our team as well as our ambitions. He will play an important role at Bayern on and off the pitch. He was already a leading player at Ajax as a youngster, and he is still capable of development at the high level he is at, at the age of 22.”

It was a Premier League campaign of two halves for Tottenham Hotspur last season.

Ange Postecoglou led them to a ten-game unbeaten streak at the start, but a cavalcade of injuries and a general loss of form towards the backend saw them slip out of the Champions League places, although Europa League qualification was secured.

Perhaps the star who encapsulated this Jekyll and Hyde year more than any other was James Maddison, who went from being one of the most creative players in the league to not even making the England squad come May.

However, the Englishman is still an incredibly talented player, and based on recent reports, Daniel Levy and Co could be about to sign someone who could help get the best out of him again.

Tottenham Hotspur transfer news

According to a recent report from GIVEMESPORT, Tottenham have maintained their interest in LOSC Lille star Jonathan David.

With just 12 months remaining on his deal with the French side, the report claims he is all but guaranteed to leave this summer, which has caught the attention of clubs across the continent, including Spurs.

A separate story from Football Insider earlier this month revealed that, due to his deal expiring next summer, the Canadian international would be available for as little as £25m.

The growing interest from other sides could make signing David a slight challenge, but considering his record, reasonable fee, and potential ability to revive Maddison's form, Levy and Co cannot afford to miss out on his signature.

Why David would be a great signing for Maddison

So, when it comes to the reasons why David would be an excellent signing for Spurs and Maddison in particular, it all boils down to one thing: his output.

Last season, only Son Heung-min and Richarlison reached double digits for goals scored across all competitions, and as the player who should be the team's primary striker, the Brazilian could only muster a measly 12.

A situation like this is never going to see the former Leicester City ace reach his full potential, as with an attack as profligate as this, he'll need to create far more chances for every goal they do put away.

This is where the "mind-blowing" Canadian poacher, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, would come in.

In his last four seasons of club football, the 24-year-old has scored 84 goals and provided 18 assists in 183 club appearances, which equates to an average of a goal involvement every 1.79 games – a genuinely impressive level of consistency.

Appearances

48

48

40

47

Goals

13

19

26

26

Assists

5

0

4

9

Goal Involvements per Match

0.37

0.39

0.75

0.74

It's not just at club level where the New York-born poacher has shone either, as in 54 senior caps for Canada, he has scored 28 goals and provided 16 assists, meaning he's currently averaging a goal involvement every 1.22 games at international level.

Just imagine a striker as effective as the Lille ace in front of the Lilywhites' ten, who, even though he struggled towards the backend of last season, still ranks in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe's top five leagues for shot-creating actions and progressive passes per 90, per FBref.

Spurs hit gold on "astounding" teen who's worth way more than Mikey Moore

The incredible talent has a massive future ahead of him.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 18, 2024

Ultimately, while David might not be a big-name striker outside of Ligue 1, his incredible and consistent record of scoring goals and providing assists make him an excellent candidate to come in and lead Spurs' frontline next season, and at the same time, he appears to be the perfect forward to rejuvenate and revive Maddison's form in North London.

Chelsea are exchanging documents to finalise the eight-figure signing of another player alongside Samu Omorodion from Atletico Madrid.

Chelsea agree £34.5 million deal for Omorodion after Gallagher sale

After both the west Londoners and Diego Simeone's side agreed to the transfer of midfielder Conor Gallagher, who's set to have his medical in Madrid today ahead of a £36 million move to the Metropolitano Stadium, Chelsea used the opportunity to strike a deal for Omorodion.

Chelsea could sign £162,000-per-week ace and Omorodion after Gallagher sale

Enzo Maresca’s side have been very busy this window.

ByEmilio Galantini Aug 6, 2024

Talks over selling Gallagher seemingly opened the door for Todd Boehly and co to reignite discussions for the Spanish striker, with Omorodion finalising personal terms ahead of a £34.5 million move to Chelsea.

Atletico have also moved to do a deal for Man City striker Julian Alvarez, who looks as if he'll take Omorodion's place in Simeone's squad for next season. Chelsea actually had a bid rejected for Omorodion earlier in the window, as widely reported, but the 20-year-old now seems set to link up with Enzo Maresca ahead of the new Premier League season.

"Last piece of the domino will be Samu Omorodion to Chelsea," said reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano on Tuesday evening.

"Final fee paid by #CFC will be £34.5m. Small details of player’s terms negotiated right now but parties sure that will get done. Gallagher to Atléti and Julián Álvarez to Atléti, also already done as revealed."

Statistic

Omorodion

Jackson

Minutes

1,922

2,810

Goals

8

14

Assists

1

5

Shots per game

1.9

2.3

Aerials won per game

1.8

1

Dribbles per game

0.6

1.5

Overall rating

6.42

7.07

via WhoScored

The young forward, who's helped Spain to the Olympics final against France, where he'll have the opportunity to win a gold medal, scored nine goals and registered an assist in 36 total appearances on loan at Deportivo last season.

Chelsea have refused to rule out signing Victor Osimhen as well as Omorodion, according to The Telegraph's Matt Law, which makes for pretty reading in the eyes of a Blues supporter.

Another player they've been in talks over signing is Gremio sensation Gabriel Mec. Reports over the weekend stated that Chelsea have agreed a deal for Mec, with South American journalist Uriel Lugt sharing a further update.

Chelsea exchanging documents to finalise Gabriel Mec signing

According to the reporter, Chelsea are exchanging the final documents to finalise a £21 million deal for Mec, who has been likened to Ronaldinho and graduated from the same academy as the Barcelona legend.

The teenage wonderkid is the latest prodigy from Brazil to agree to join Chelsea, with Estevao Willian putting pen to paper on a Stamford Bridge switch just before him. It's added that a seven-year contract is on the table for Mec.

While they have been great on the pitch and look as sharp as they did in May, it's been a somewhat disappointing summer for Arsenal so far this year.

Mikel Arteta's side will enter this season with the sole objective of ending their two-decade title drought, but as things stand, the club haven't done enough in the transfer market.

The only addition to the first team thus far has been Riccardo Calafiori, and while it looks like there has been some progress in the pursuit of Mikel Merino, his potential arrival doesn't feel remotely imminent.

However, recent reports have now touted another central midfielder for a move to the Emirates, and he could prove to be an ideal alternative to the Spaniard or possibly even a signing to go along with him.

Arsenal transfer news

According to a recent report from journalist Graeme Bailey, Arsenal are one of several top sides who have been offered the chance to sign Marco Verratti this summer.

Alongside the Gunners, the report claims that Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City have all been offered the former Paris Saint-Germain superstar just a year after he left the Parisians to join Qatari club Al-Arabi for £39m.

The report does not mention how much the Italian ace might cost potential suitors, but with just a year remaining on his deal, it's unlikely to be much more than his Transfermarkt valuation of €18m, which converts to around £15m.

It's certainly a left-field rumour, but given his incredible career and the fact that he's still just 31 years old, bringing Verratti to the Emirates this summer may be a cost-effective way to add some serious talent and experience to the midfield. He could even be a better alternative to Merino.

How Verratti compares to Merino

So, if Verratti really is a potential alternative to Merino at the moment, how do the pair stack up to one another? Well, when we take a look at their raw output, as even in central midfield, they'd be expected to contribute in attack, it's not an entirely straightforward comparison.

For example, the Sociedad ace ended last season with eight goals and five assists to his name, while the Italian star ended his season with just eight assists in total, suggesting that the former is more of an attacking threat, right? Not exactly.

The Spaniard racked up his goal involvements in 45 appearances, meaning he averaged one every 3.46 games. At the same time, his competitor produced his assists in just 21 matches, equating to a more impressive average of one every 2.62 games.

However, you also have to consider the leagues in which they play, as while the Qatari top flight is probably more competitive than it used to be, the level of competition isn't going to be of the same standard as La Liga.

So, with it hard to pick an outright winner from their output, a better way to compare them would be to look at the former PSG ace's underlying numbers from his final campaign in France and see how they stack up to Merino's from last year.

Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists

0.14

0.19

Progressive Carries

1.64

0.94

Progressive Passes

10.7

5.91

Shots

0.33

1.09

Passing Accuracy

92.6%

76.2%

Key Passes

1.35

0.72

Passes into the Penalty Area

2.25

0.98

Crosses into the Final Third

9.10

4.42

Shot-Creating Actions

3.41

2.36

Goal-Creating Actions

0.37

0.29

Tackles Won

2.01

1.56

Blocks

1.72

1.30

Interceptions

1.11

0.58

Clearances

0.45

1.99

Successful Take-ons

1.19

0.87

Ball Recoveries

7.17

7.14

Aerial Duels Won

0.45

5.94

Interestingly, when we do this, we can see that the Italian, whom Xavi once dubbed "one of the best midfielders in the world", comes out on top in practically every single metric, including progressive passes and carries, passing accuracy, passes into the final third and penalty area, key passes, shot and goal-creating actions, and successful take-ons, all per 90.

It's not just in the attacking metrics that he excels either, as he comes out on top for tackles won, blocks, interceptions and ball recoveries per 90, showing that he is a central midfielder who really can do a bit of everything.

In his defence, the Sociedad star does better in a few areas, such as shots and shots on target, non-penalty expected goals plus assists, clearances, and aerial duels won per 90, but the overall difference in their underlying numbers is stark.

Ultimately, while Merino does look like he'll be a good addition to Arsenal's squad this summer, Edu and Co really should look to take up the offer in Verratti. Even if he has slightly regressed in the Middle East, he was a tour de force in Paris, and at 31, there are plenty of years left in him.

Imagine him & Merino: Arsenal holds talks over signing £86m goal machine

The “outstanding” marksman would take the Gunners to the next level.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Aug 15, 2024

Chelsea’s dire need for a new first-choice goalkeeper became even more apparent at the weekend when Robert Sanchez made yet another howler against Manchester City.

In an attempt to collect a long pass to Erling Haaland from City ‘keeper Ederson, the Spaniard found himself in no man’s land, allowing Haaland to turn and lob the ball over him into an empty net.

The error was his fifth leading directly to a goal this season – the joint-highest total in the Premier League.

Speaking after the City game, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca insisted that despite Sanchez’s propensity for errors, he trusts the 27-year-old between the sticks.

“We trust Robert for sure,” Maresca said. “He is completely aware he is making mistakes in this moment. We trust Robert. We have one entire week and we will see the reaction for the next game.

“Robert, for sure, is completely aware he has to do better,” he added. “He knows perfectly. In this moment it is like this. The good thing is he is the first one knowing, aware that he has to do better.”

£65m comeback, Sanchez successor: 7 players Chelsea should sign this month

The Blues need reinforcements…

ByBarney Lane Jan 10, 2025

Interestingly, before the game, Maresca said that while he does trust Sanchez, he may not need to for too much longer.

Asked whether Sanchez can be Chelsea’s No 1 for many years to come, Maresca said: “For this season? No doubt. But then in the future, we don’t know. It is not only about Robert. It is not even about me, you know? I’m focused on this moment, this season.”

So come the end of the season, who could Chelsea bring in to replace Sanchez? Here, we’ve outlined seven possible replacements for the Spaniard.

1 Gregor Kobel Borussia Dortmund

Gregor Kobel has been one of German football’s standout goalkeepers since joining Borussia Dortmund in 2021, keeping 46 clean sheets in 142 games for BVB, including 7 in 27 Bundesliga matches last season.

Though he’s struggled a little more this term, it seems to be more a reflection of Dortmund’s poor form as a team – leading to the sacking of Nuri Sahin – than his individual performances.

Kobel’s impressive stats and lack of errors last season make him an ideal candidate for Chelsea. His experience in European competitions would also be a significant asset.

2 Djordje Petrovic Strasbourg (on loan from Chelsea)

Djordje Petrovic was Chelsea’s first-choice ‘keeper for much of last season under Mauricio Pochettino, but was deemed surplus to requirements when Maresca took over in the summer.

Now on loan with sister club Strasbourg, it would be easy for Chelsea to bring him back into the fold if they so desire, and it would certainly be a quick fix to a problem position.

The 25-year-old has impressed in Ligue 1 and was recently described as “world-class” by Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior.

“We have seen huge progress from Petro,” Rosenior said of the Serb. “He is a world-class goalkeeper. We see it every day and it is still paying off today.”

3 Diogo Costa Porto

Diogo Costa has been one of the steadiest hands in Europe over the past few years, keeping 77 clean sheets in 181 games for Porto, including 11 in 19 league games this season.

However, it was his remarkable performance at last summer’s European Championship that truly captured global attention. In Portugal’s last-16 clash against Slovenia, Costa made history by saving all three of the opposition’s penalties in the shootout – a feat never before accomplished in the tournament’s 66-year history.

Following that heroic display, Chelsea reportedly approached Costa during the summer transfer window, but the 25-year-old ultimately stayed at Porto. In late 2024, CaughtOffside reported that the Blues remained interested in Costa, but that Porto are expected to demand a hefty £59 million fee for their star goalkeeper.

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ByCharlie Smith Oct 8, 2025 4 Mads Hermansen Leicester City

According to reports, Maresca wanted to sign Leicester City shot-stopper Mads Hermansen in the summer, but instead ended up signing Filip Jorgensen from Villarreal.

Hermansen was the Italian’s first-choice ‘keeper during his promotion-winning season at the King Power Stadium, keeping 13 clean sheets in 44 games.

Maresca is understood to be an admirer of the Dane’s ability to play out from the back, which is something Sanchez has struggled to do this term.

TeamTALK reported in November that Leicester would want £35m for their current No 1.

5 Kepa Arrizabalaga Bournemouth (on loan from Chelsea)

Kepa Arrizabalaga remains on Chelsea’s books, but the world’s most expensive goalkeeper is currently on loan at Bournemouth, where he’s played a key role for Andoni Iraola’s side this term.

The Spaniard has started 16 of the Cherries’ 23 Premier League games this season, keeping five clean sheets and saving 76.3% of the shots he’s faced (as per FBref) – which is the second-best record in the division, ironically level with Sanchez.

Though a return to Stamford Bridge for Kepa (which he supposedly wants) would make sense on paper, his record in west London makes for poor reading.

In his second season with Chelsea in 2019/20, the former Athletic Bilbao star recorded the worst save percentage of any goalkeeper in the Premier League, stopping just 54.5% of the shots he faced.

If Chelsea can get the Bournemouth version of Kepa back, great. If they get their old version back, less so.

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2 ByStephan Georgiou Aug 23, 2024 6 Filip Jorgensen Chelsea

Signed by Chelsea from Villarreal in the summer, Filip Jorgensen has yet to make a significant impact in the Premier League, but has shown promise in cup competitions, keeping five clean sheets in 11 games.

He also boasts a mightily impressive save percentage, having stopped 80% of the shots he’s faced in the Premier League, while he’s saved 83.9% in the Conference League, as per FBref.

At just 22 years old, Jorgensen could offer a long-term solution for Chelsea in goal, and clearly has the potential to grow into a top-tier goalkeeper.

However, to do that, Maresca needs to give him more of a chance in the league rather than stick with Sanchez despite his continuous errors. Doing so will no doubt be frustrating the youngster and potentially putting a dent in his confidence.

7 Caoimhin Kelleher Liverpool

Earlier this year, Liverpool’s Caiomhin Kelleher expressed his desire to leave Anfield, stating he wants to “go and be a number one and play week in, week out”.

Though he’s impressed when called upon, the 26-year-old has never been able to displace Alisson as Liverpool’s regular No 1. In August, the Reds also completed the £30 million signing of Valencia ‘keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who will move to Merseyside next year.

Kelleher has kept seven clean sheets in 14 games for Liverpool this season and looks at home at a top Premier League side.

Manchester United are now increasingly keen on signing a “special” forward this summer, and his price tag may have dropped by £65m, according to a report.

Man Utd lacking creativity

Man United’s goalscoring issues this season have been well-documented, with Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund failing to hit the heights expected of them, but another major problem has been a lack of service for the strikers.

The Red Devils have created just 54 big chances in the Premier League this season, the 13th-highest total in the top flight, which indicates they may need to bring in a new winger or attacking midfielder this summer, alongside a centre-forward.

Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo is well-liked, with United planning to make the winger their first summer signing, and there is a feeling a deal could be possible for a fee of around £50m.

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There are some other options from within the Premier League, however, with Southampton’s Tyler Dibling also of interest, although the reported £100m price tag may have been off-putting for potential suitors.

However, according to a new report from Caught Offside, Dibling’s price tag may have now dropped considerably, with it being revealed a deal could be possible for a fee of around €40m (£35m), which would be a £65m price reduction.

Man United and Ruben Amorim are becoming increasingly keen on signing the Southampton winger, who is now high up their list of targets, with the manager eager to bring in a top young attacker.

A whole host of clubs could be set to battle it out for the 19-year-old, however, with Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, RB Leipzig and West Ham United also expressing an interest, so there may be fierce competition for his signature.

"Special" Dibling could launch career at Old Trafford

The young forward has been a breakout star for Southampton this season, making 27 league appearances, but it was always going to be a tall order to stand out in a very poor side, who could go down as one of the worst teams in Premier League history.

That said, the Englishman caught the eye with his performance at Old Trafford earlier in the campaign, receiving praise from Fabrizio Romano.

Having also been lauded as a “special talent” by journalist Josh Bunting, it is clear the starlet has a lot of potential, so it is promising news that Man United are in the race for his signature.

The recent news that a deal could amount to just £35m is also a welcome update, given that a £100m price tag would have been very hard to justify, with Dibling yet to prove himself at the top level over a sustained period.